OF ALL my articles this year, the story of little Ellie seemed to capture your hearts.

Whether I’m in a taxi, walking through town or having my hair cut someone always asks about Ellie.

Back in January Mrs B rescued a small damaged Labrador puppy. Rejected by her mother, Ellie had been attacked mercilessly by the rest of the litter for her weakness.

Severely undernourished and with one ear ripped off, her continued existence was a complete mystery. But as she gained strength Ellie’s strategy became clear.

She was completely unmanageable, biting anyone and anything that came near. Ellie had learned to fight for her survival.

With her one ragged ear and her diminutive size, Ellie was exceedingly cute but her looks were dangerously deceptive.

In the hands of an unsuspecting pet owner she was destined to become another dangerous dog statistic but Ellie didn’t get an unsuspecting pet owner… she got me.

I recall one dreadful day in the park when some well-meaning granny asked if she could pet Ellie. Before I could issue a warning Ellie sunk her teeth into granny’s hand.

Ellie was growing rapidly and it was obvious such behaviour could not continue.

I made it clear her aggression was not acceptable, rewarding her only for calm behaviour. Ellie was very bright and quickly learned what advantages she could gain for good conduct.

Ellie began to settle down and was soon ready to join our puppy class, graduating eight weeks later with honours.

In August she joined the working dog programme where she could give full vent to her retriever instincts.

Mud, dirt, ditches and streams – Ellie loved them all. Working in the company of older, experienced dogs, the remnants of Ellie’s fearful aggression finally evaporated.

Ellie is now a delightful young lady, fully integrated into the ‘pack’ and destined to be an important part of our summer display team.

Do come and say hello, she won’t bite but she may lick you to death. Thanks to Mrs B’s compassion; my thick, if somewhat scarred skin and the patient guidance of Cole, our wise old therapy dog Ellie now enjoys a happy fulfilling life.

Merry Christmas and thank you all so much for your interest in the rehabilitation of little Ellie, who asked for no more than a chance at life.

The views expressed on this page are Vic Barlow’s and not necessarily those of the Express